Laboratory Analyst - Chemist I, Tier 1

WELCOME TO CLEMSON!

Clemson is calling...are you ready to answer the call?

One of the most productive public research universities in the nation, Clemson University attracts and powerfully unites students, faculty and staff whose greatest desire is to make a difference in the lives of others.

Clemson has recently been named a top 25 public college in the country by the Wall Street Journal, a top South Carolina employer by Forbes and a Military Friendly Employer for five years running. Through our research, outreach and entrepreneurial projects, Clemson University and its employees are driving economic development and improving quality of life in South Carolina and beyond.

So,... are you ready?

JOB SUMMARY:

The Chemist I performs quantitative chemical analyses of inorganic and organic samples by operating and maintaining laboratory equipment and analytical instrumentation, while following quality control and safety protocols, and performs other duties as assigned. This position specifically contributes to feed and plant analyses critical to livestock producers, growers, and researchers.

JOB DUTIES:

35% - Essential - Sample Preparation

Receives, organizes, and documents samples using Electronic Document Management Systems and LIMS, and maintains integrity of samples, specifically feeds and plants. Prepares laboratory samples for analysis by following standard operating procedures (SOPs) and operating microwave digestion systems, digestion blocks, ovens, furnaces, electrodes, and analytical balances.

35% - Essential - Sample Analyses and Reporting

Conduct analyses on feeds, plants, and other agricultural samples to determine specific contents, i.e., fats, proteins, acid and neutral fibers, and elemental components. Follows SOPs, uses appropriate methodologies and instruments to complete analyses, including NIR, ICP, fat extractor, fiber analyzer, and autotitrators. Calculate, record, and verify test results for required reporting purposes, paying special attention to quality control and utilizing current computing applications. Achieves acceptable turnaround times, specifically with priority feed samples.

15% - Essential - Lab/Section Maintenance and Improvements

Maintain fat and fiber analyzers and digestion systems as needed, including cleaning, changing parts, and seeking out assistance from more senior lab staff or tech support. Maintain general laboratory workspaces, glassware, and equipment for cleanliness and serviceability. Prepare solutions and reagents used in analytical procedures according to SOPs. Monitor inventory and request required chemicals and consumable supplies. Use appropriate laboratory safety practices and procedures in all activities. Consult with lab manager and/or director promptly for maintenance and when procedures should be updated/developed and equipment installed. Document modifications to procedures regularly. Assists with annual maintenance/improvements of facility.

10% - Essential - Other Laboratory Responsibility

Perform other related duties as required for the orderly operation of the facility. Demonstrate tasks to other lab staff and students and learn tasks form other staff to function as backup (cross-training). Serve as backup chemist for the manure and compost analysis. Examples of other duties are as follows: Accepts samples and payment from walk-in customers and answer general questions from customers. Issues receipts for customers. Receive and sort deliveries. Coordinate with other laboratory staff and student workers to complete sample analyses and related tasks. Completes other duties as assigned.

5% - Essential - Departmental and University Responsibility

Complete required university and safety trainings in a timely fashion. Effectively use university mandated applications for timekeeping, travel requests, and other computing systems. Attend required Division-wide events and trainings. Serve on internal hiring committees as needs arise.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

Education - Bachelor's Degree in Physical or Biological Sciences field

Work Experience 2+ years or graduate degree in related science field

PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS:

Education - Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry, Biology, Food Science, Animal Nutrition, or other Physical/Biological Science

Work Experience 2+ years work in a laboratory setting as analyst; laboratory-based graduate level training can be substituted; experience in an agriculture-related field and team environment is preferred

RESPONSIBILITIES

JOB KNOWLEDGE

Fundamental Job Knowledge - Fundamental working knowledge of concepts, practices and procedures and ability to apply in varied situations

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

No Supervisory Duties - Not responsible for supervising employees.

BUDGETARY RESPONSIBILITIES

No Budget Responsibilities - No fiscal responsibility for the department's budget.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Stand for prolonged period

Sit (stationary position) for prolonged period

Walk or move about

Use hands or feet to operate or handle machinery, equipment, etc.

Ascend or descend (i.e. stairs, ladder)

Position self to accomplish task (i.e. stoop, kneel, crawl)

Communicate, converse, give direction, express oneself

Recognize or inspect visually

Move, transport, raise or lower

Extends hands or arms in any direction

Perceive, observe, clarity of vision

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Exposure to dust/fumes

Noise

Mechanical Hazards

Chemical hazards

Burn hazards

Exposure to bio-hazards (i.e. blood, bodily fluids)

WORK SCHEDULE:

Standard Hours: 37.5

COMPENSATION INFORMATION

Expected Salary $ 39,764.00 - $ 46,000.00

Salary is dependent upon several factors including, but not limited to, a candidate's previous experience, knowledge, skills and performance in accordance with Clemson's compensation guidelines.

ESSENTIAL PERSONNEL LEVEL

Normal Operations

Required to follow emergency facility closure directives, and not normally expected work on-site during emergency situations.

JOB LOCATION:

Clemson, SC

APPLICATION DEADLINE:

Apply by August 13, 2025

MILITARY AND VETERAN:

MILITARY EQUIVALENCY:

Clemson University is proud to allow educational equivalency for military technical certifications and trainings that directly relate to the job duties.

VETERAN PREFERENCE:

South Carolina is making our Veterans a priority for employment in state agencies and institutions.

State policy for veteran preference states that for qualifying, full-time permanent positions, a veteran applicant may receive preference if they meet the job's minimum qualifications, were discharged under honorable conditions from the military, and submit their DD-214 for confidential review by the Office of Human Resources.

To claim Veteran Preference for qualifying positions, email ... upon submission of your application.

CLOSING STATEMENT:

Clemson University is an EEO/AA employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to characteristics protected by applicable law including disability and protected veteran status.

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